Page 218 of Torrid Passion
CHAPTER 37
Kyla
I step out of the chauffeured car in front of Dark Compulsion a few minutes before nine. After the required security check, I enter the club. Although this is an adult club, there’s always a hush of wealth and unquestionable privilege when you walk in. The strict privacy rules ensures what happens at the club stays at the club. Hollywood’s elite never has to fear a media shit storm as a result of a wild night. Speaking of which, Larkin was relieved a club member wasn’t behind my own media nightmare.
The party is in full swing. The first floor is already buzzing with excitement. A few couples are already getting hot and heavy. I guess it’s to be expected. The event started at eight and many members were here early for dinner next door at the hotel. Loki and I are bypassing all this. He landed a few hours ago. For our reunion, we decided to come here and have a little fun.
As I scour the room.
The incredible display of fashion is dazzling. I love how members go all out when it’s theme party night. Tonight’s theme is centered around old 50s Hollywood glamour—think Jane Russell, Elizabeth Taylor, Ava Gardner, Marilyn Monroe and Sophia Loren. You know the days when women dressed up to the nines just to go grocery shopping and men dressed like Cary Grant. For tonight, Larkin’s dress code is very specific—women are expected to wear an elegant evening gown evocative of the era. Men must arrive in a tux.
Why should dressing up only be limited to Halloween?
Larkin loves the idea of everyone getting all dressed up… before stripping to get down and kinky. I love how the man thinks.
When I told Hayden and Stella about the party, they went into action. So tonight, I'm wearing a Red Carpet Ready design. It's part of their upcoming collection. I selected a black Elizabeth Taylor inspired design I really love. Hayden and Stella nailed it. I styled my hair to match the 50s glam and I emulated Liz’s impeccable makeup. I completed the look with diamond earrings and bracelets. Only a pair of black suede Giuseppe Zanotti strappy heels adorned with Swarovski crystal could do justice to my vintage-inspired dress. In other words, I’m ready for the ball. Of course, I’m wearing the Swarovski crystal collar and the pendant Loki gave me when we officially started dating.
Speaking of my cousins, they're too chicken to make the decision about becoming members. I think they're waiting for the perfect guy to corrupt them. I can't blame them. Without Loki, I would never have had the guts to set foot in a place like this.
“Artemis, you look stunning,” Larkin says approaching me. He kisses me on both cheeks.
“Thank you, Zeus,” I smile. “You look like you were born in a tuxedo.”
“Thank you, but don't let the polished exterior fool you. You'd be surprised what gutter I had to crawl out of to get to where I am today. This,” he pulls at the lapel of his tux, “tells only part of the story.”
Loki has alluded to Larkin’s past. Apparently, the mogul’s beginnings are laced with shame, drama and rejection. My boyfriend also says our host rarely offers more when explaining about his childhood. I guess with enough money anyone can hide the pain.
“Members really got into the spirit of the theme,” I say changing the subject. “It’s busy.”
“Yes. I’m pleased it was so well received... then again Fridays are always a little crazy at the club. Theme parties double the excitement.”
“I had a lot of fun picking my outfit,” I say.
Larkin gives me a onceover. “Blade is a lucky man.”
I lean in and whisper, “Between you and I, I think I'm the lucky one.”
He mirrors me. “Between you and I, I'd like to believe my little hotel is responsible for hooking you up.” He offers a rare smile.
He doesn't have all the details, but he knows the PG version.
“I think you're right,” I smile back. “Speaking of the devil, has my boyfriend arrived yet?”
“He has.” Larkin reaches inside his tux jacket and hands me a small black envelope. “In fact, he asked me to give you this.”
“Thank you.”
“If you'll excuse me, I have to go make sure all my other guests look as incredible as you. Have a good evening, Artemis.” His eyes drop to the envelope in my hands. “Something tells me you will.”
With that, he's gone.
Excitement courses through my veins.
He’s here!
I open the envelope to find a hand-scripted note on a white card. There’s also a key card with the club’s logo.
My beautiful goddess,
